Flying

It's understandable that no equivalent to your local auto-parts store exists for business jets. Aircraft maintenance records must be documented scrupulously, and the pedigree of every nut, bolt and washer has to be recorded for possible FAA review. So, when it comes time to replace a fuel pump or engine mount-or even a tire-it makes a difference where the part comes from.

Corporate aviation has been hit particularly hard by the economic downturn. But the charter field may do relatively well, according to some industry insiders, as business jet travelers seek less costly alternatives to fractional jet shares and ownership of whole aircraft.

Much has been written recently by defenders of business aviation about the 5,000 airports accessible to our aircraft in the U.S. That compares with the estimated 500 that accept airline service and the approximately 70 airports that handle the vast majority of airline flights.

Under the "gotta have one" heading comes this little item: a seven-ounce, cellphone-sized satellite tracking device that also serves as an emergency-locator transmitter and allows you to check in with friends and provide them with trip progress reports.

Cut two feet off the Learjet 45's fuselage, throw out two passenger seats, drain 100 gallons of fuel and this is what you get: a $9.46 million bullet that is sexy, leggy and fast. It's called the Learjet 40XR.

As the recession drags on, charter operators are facing continued declines in business. The good news for passengers is that a growing number of these operators are launching fixed-price flights and other programs aimed at bringing back customers. The deals that can be had confirm it's a classic buyer's market.

The Dish: Nigiri Maki Chef Galine at Chefs de France on the Caribbean island of St. Maarten begins making this tantalizing Japanese platter by rolling sushi rice between his palms. Then he drapes the sushi with a thin slice of squid, octopus or eel and binds it together with a strip of nori, or edible seaweed.